North America 1849, from Gold Rush to Warlord

Chapter 193 Great Powers, Here I Come!

Jefferson Davis.

He served as a colonel in the United States Army Volunteer Service during the Mexican-American War three years ago.

He is now the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Ten years later, this Democratic politician will become the president of the Confederate States of America.

Franklin Pierce.

Democratic senators from New Hampshire.

In the original history, this "unexpected" and "dark horse" would represent the Democratic Party in next year's presidential election.

Furthermore, this "dark horse" will defeat General Scott, the Army Commander-in-Chief representing the Whig Party, and become the fourteenth President of the United States!

Steve Douglas.

Democratic senator from Illinois.

In the future, this short Democrat, the eloquent orator known as "Little Giant," will become Abraham Lincoln's main political opponent.

Whether it was the two vying for the Illinois Senate seat or the numerous presidential elections in which Abraham Lincoln and Steve Douglas faced off, the two men were locked in a fierce battle.

Historically, Abraham Lincoln and Steve Douglas engaged in seven consecutive public debates.

These seven "Lincoln-Douglas debates," and even afterwards, became famous historical events, widely celebrated.

……

These people were representative figures of the southern slave states.

But now, they are Ah Zu's honored guests!

After the grand banquet, the Huamei Company, represented by Azu, reached a series of preliminary agreements with the leaders of the Southern slave states.

Huamei Company will grant the distribution rights for a range of products to the representatives of the Southern Slave States present here today.

This includes more than just penicillin, which is the most profitable drug.

There were also jeans, prefabricated houses, compound impulse steam turbines... and a range of weapons and munitions produced by the Huamei Arsenal.

This was Azu's main purpose in inviting these representatives from the southern slave states to the banquet.

Compared to the Northern states, the Southern states have far too little industrial strength and population base.

Apart from cotton and slaves, the Southern states were at a significant disadvantage in almost every other aspect.

Therefore, Azu plans to strengthen the power of the Southern State in advance and arm it as much as possible!
Let the future Civil War be even bloodier, longer, and more agonizing... ideally, until the last drop of blood is shed from America.

When the snipe and the clam fight, the fisherman profits.

That's exactly what Ah Zu was planning!

By maintaining close ties with the Southern slave states through business relationships and selling arms and various products, Huamei Corporation not only strengthened the Southern states' power but also made a fortune for itself.

Why not?
After hosting a banquet for the representatives from the southern states, Azu certainly did not forget the northern states.

The following evening, Azu also hosted a banquet for the leaders representing the interests of the Northern states, including President Lincoln.

The main purpose of this banquet was to deepen commercial ties with the northern states.

After the two banquets, Azu finally accomplished the main purpose of his trip to Washington.

After spending three days in Washington, Azu and his group returned to Baltimore, where they prepared to embark on their journey to Europe.

However, before that, Azu visited Robert Lee's cozy home again.

However, to Azu's disappointment, Robert Lee declined his kind invitation.

For Robert E. Lee and his family, California was simply too far away. Moreover, it was far from the political and economic centers of the East, making it seem like far from an ideal choice.

Although Azu was disappointed, he was not discouraged. Instead, he left Robert Lee with some words.

"Lieutenant Colonel, I will return to Baltimore from Europe within six months at the latest."

"I predict that within six months, the political situation in the United States will undergo tremendous changes, thanks to President Lincoln's strong push."

"The future political situation may become increasingly unfriendly to soldiers like you who sympathize with the slave states in the South."

"Perhaps, in six months, your idea will change, who knows."

"The doors of California will always be open to you, Lieutenant Colonel."

"When I return from Europe, I hope to hear good news from you!"

After bidding farewell to Robert E. Lee's home, Azu and his party finally embarked on their long journey to Rome.
-
Meanwhile, in Europe, in Rome, in the Vatican.

North of St. Peter's Basilica, in the Apostolic Palace where the Pope's daily office and residence are located, a weekly "synod of bishops" is being held.

At this time, Pope Pius IX was the last pope to hold both the positions of religious leader and secular head of state.

He was also the longest-reigning pope, serving for 32 years from 1846 to 1878.

For a position like the Pope, which is almost exclusively held by the very elderly, Pius IX's reign was exceptionally long.

Moreover, Pius IX was a rather conservative pope.

At this time, the Papal States were seen by Republicans as the biggest obstacle to unifying Italy.

During the Second Garibaldi Revolt in 1848, Pius IX fled overnight to the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies and refused to return to Rome, plunging the Papal States into a state of anarchy.

It wasn't until 1850, a year earlier, that Pius IX returned to Rome.

Last year, an unassuming bishop from faraway North America brought a pleasant surprise to the vast church.

Bishop Evan from the Bay Area obtained a large quantity of penicillin for the church.

Church hospitals around the world have saved countless lives with the miraculous drug penicillin.

For this reason, the prestige of the Roman Catholic Church has been greatly enhanced.

As a result, the church has gained a large number of devout believers worldwide.

At a time when the prestige and reputation of the Vatican were teetering on the brink of collapse, this was undoubtedly a timely and much-needed boost.

Therefore, the promotion of Bishop Evan of the Bay Area to archbishop was approved by the Vatican with almost no objection.

Moreover, many people in the Vatican, including the Pope himself, are very interested in the California Chinese governor who created the miracle drug penicillin and has an exceptionally friendly attitude towards the Church.

One of the topics discussed at this "synod of bishops" personally chaired by Pius IX was the visit of the Chinese governor.

"Your Majesty, we have received a letter from Archbishop Evan of California. At our invitation, the Governor of California will soon lead a delegation from California on a formal visit to the Papal States!"

The speaker was Giacomo Antonelli, Secretary of State of the Papal States.

This Secretary of State is the Grand Steward in charge of the affairs of the Papal States.

Within the theocratic papacy, Giacomo Antonelli held a position second only to the Pope, serving as the Archbishop of Rome responsible for day-to-day affairs.

Secretary of State Giacomo Antonelli continued, "As for how to receive that Governor of California, His Majesty will need to give his personal instructions…!"

Pius IX, at the age of sixty, had a full head of silver hair and was obese.

Among the cardinals, his unique white cap with gold trim and his pristine white robes highlighted his unparalleled and supreme status.

Pius IX answered slowly and deliberately, "As far as I know, that Governor of California is a very young Chinese man, is that right?"

“Yes, Your Majesty!” Secretary of State Giacomo Antonelli replied respectfully.

Pius IX pondered, "Our Papacy's influence in North America is still relatively weak!"

"It is said that Garibaldi, that traitor, fled to America. There, he even received cheers and support from the Italian community!"

"This shows that the Vatican must strengthen its influence and presence in North America."

"Hmm... this young governor of California, which party does he belong to? What is his political background...?"

Faced with the question of Pius IX, Giacomo Antonelli quickly recalled all the information he had about the Chinese governor.

"Your Majesty, as far as I know, that young governor of California does not belong to any political party, nor does he have any political background!"

"Two years ago, he was just a laborer who came to California from China."

"In just two years, he single-handedly built Huamei Industrial, invented penicillin, and a large number of other new products...!" "In last year's California election, he even went from a political novice to become the first governor of California!"

"As far as I know, he is the youngest American governor to date, and also the first Chinese governor...!"

"Rumors suggest that this governor is even a close friend and major supporter of the current US President, Abraham Lincoln!"

"A close friend and key supporter of the President of the United States...!"

Pius IX's face showed a thoughtful expression: "So that means this governor's influence may not be limited to California, but to the whole of America...?"

“Perhaps!” Giacomo Antonelli replied cautiously. “The specifics will depend on Archbishop Evan’s report…!”

Pius IX added, "Perhaps this is a great opportunity for us to exert influence on American politics...!"

“Your Majesty…!” At this moment, another voice rang out: “Although he is the first governor of California and a friend and supporter of the President of the United States, he is, after all, just a Chinese man, and moreover, he is not even a believer of my Lord!”

Pius IX turned his head slightly and looked at the cardinal who had spoken: "Valentillo, what is your opinion?"

Mario Valentillo, a member of the College of Cardinals of the Papacy, is also the chief minister of the Congregation for Sacraments, one of the sixteen departments of the Papal States.

Cardinal Valentillo bowed slightly to express his respect to the Pope before saying, "Your Majesty, that Chinese governor is not a believer of my Lord. If we receive him with excessive courtesy, it might be contrary to the teachings of my Lord…!"

“Hmm…!” Pius IX nodded slightly: “Indeed, a non-believer Chinese person… is not suited to overly formal etiquette!”

Secretary of State Antonelli continued, "Your Majesty, but that Chinese governor has, after all, brought tangible benefits to our Holy See!"

"Putting aside other things, he provided large quantities of penicillin to the church at prices far below market value."

"With this alone, that Chinese governor saved the lives of many believers and brought prestige and wealth to the church!"

"If we mistreat him, or if we cut off supplies to the church in a fit of anger... it will cause considerable losses!"

"Not to mention, this Chinese governor wields real power in the United States and has a significant influence on our development of influence there!"

Hearing this, Pius IX nodded slightly: "Of course, we can't treat him poorly... Well, let's receive that governor according to the standards for a secular viscount...!"

His Holiness the Pope has spoken, and no one else can say anything, no matter what their opinions are.

Secretary of State Antonelli then said, "Your Majesty, shall we then bestow upon that governor a noble title?... After all, his contributions to the Papacy are considerable!"

Pius IX pondered for a moment and said, "There's no rush! I'll make a decision after I've met him in person!"
-
The small fleet, consisting of the armored frigates "Zhiyuan" and "Dingyuan", maintained a high speed of 20 knots all the way in the North Atlantic.

This was a long trip that lasted for half a month.

After stopping in the Azores, a Portuguese overseas territory, to replenish coal, fresh water, and fresh food, the ship crossed the Strait of Gibraltar and entered the Mediterranean Sea.

Then, it stopped at the port of Marseille in France to resupply again, and finally arrived at the port of Naples, the closest port to Rome.

Naples is the closest major port to Rome, which is still more than 200 kilometers away by land.

In the port of Naples, the California delegation, led by Azu, was welcomed by the Papal States.

Standing on the railing of the "Zhiyuan," Archbishop Evan looked down at the small welcoming procession below, his thick eyebrows furrowing slightly. Even his expression darkened.

Azu noticed Archbishop Evan's unusual behavior and couldn't help but ask, "Archbishop, what's wrong with you?"

Archbishop Evan shook his head slightly: "The Vatican only sent one bishop to lead the reception, the protocol is too low...!"

Ah Zu smiled dismissively, "It's just a formality. Do you think I'm the kind of person who cares about empty gestures?"

Archbishop Evan was still shaking his head: "No! Azu, the scale of the welcome reflects the Vatican's attitude towards you."

“A bishop greeted him; this was merely the custom for welcoming a secular viscount or baron.”

"As the governor of a state, your status is at least equivalent to that of a secular earl or marquis, and you should at least send an archbishop or even a cardinal to greet you."

"This scene shows that the Vatican doesn't really value you!"

Azu's smile remained unchanged: "If they don't value it enough, then we'll find a way to make them value it!"

……

The group boarded the Vatican's ornately decorated carriage and sped along the road to Rome.

Only Azu, Archbishop Even, and a group of women were allowed to ride in the Vatican's carriage.

Most people could only follow on horseback.

Throughout the journey, Vivian in the carriage appeared exceptionally excited.

Her maternal family originated from Italy.

For her, coming to Italy was like returning to half of her hometown.

Unlike the emerging United States, ancient Italy exudes the vicissitudes of time and its past glory.

Everywhere you look, you'll find ancient buildings with centuries of history, as well as fountains and sculptures everywhere.

The spires of the churches pierce the sky, proclaiming the supreme authority of the gods.

Silent marble and bronze sculptures tell the story of a glorious past.

Each weathered relic reveals the weight of history.

……

"This is Europe, completely different from America!"

Vivian, setting foot in old Europe for the first time, couldn't help but sigh softly, "It seems like this place is so cultured and has such a rich history!"

"Hehe...!" Azu laughed, "The most uncultured and uncultured country in the world has to be the United States!"

"Rome was once the center of Western civilization! Comparing America to Rome is like putting an illiterate person and a PhD side by side—there's no comparison whatsoever!"

"Is our America really that bad?" Vivian and Victoria both pouted, quite unconvinced.

Azu nodded emphatically: "In terms of culture and heritage, it's just that bad!"

"In the eyes of old Europe, America was the typical representative of being uncultured, uneducated, vulgar, and rude."

"So this time, you'd better tone it down a bit, and at least pretend to be ladies!"

Upon hearing Ah Zu's words, all the girls in the carriage were displeased!

"Ah Zu, what nonsense are you spouting?"

"Which of us isn't a lady?"

"Ladies, do we still need to pretend? Tch...!"

……

The girls chattered incessantly, looking indignant, which gave Ah Zu a headache: "Look at you, I only said one thing to you and you all look like you want to eat me alive... and you call yourselves ladies...!"

“Especially Victoria…and you…Monica…!”

"Once we get to Rome, I'll find you the best tailor shop and have several sets of European court attire made for each of you. Make sure you all look presentable."

"Don't let yourselves be dressed in pencil skirts, jeans, and riding boots when you go to see the Pope!!"

Monica pouted her sexy lips, displeased, and said, "What's wrong with a bodycon skirt? Didn't you, Boss, personally design it for me to wear?"

Victoria was even more displeased: "What's wrong with jeans and riding boots? Lots of girls in the West dress like that...!"

"I refuse to believe it! If I go to see the Pope dressed like this, he'll tie me to the stake and burn me alive...!"

Azuna was completely overwhelmed by this group of girls and could only give a helpless, bitter smile.

But once they arrived in Rome and checked into the hotel arranged by the Vatican, the group of girls immediately went out in droves to find a tailor shop.

They may be stubborn, but their actions tell a different story.

Now that they were in Europe, these girls, who grew up in America and China, including Vivian and Fu Shanxiang, did not want to be looked down upon.

They were even more unwilling to lose face for their men!

Even figures like Ah Zu and Zuo Zongtang did the same, ordering several sets of top-quality court robes for themselves as quickly as possible.

……

Two days after arriving in Rome, the day finally came for me to meet His Holiness the Pope!

(End of this chapter)